Over the past 20 years Croatia have managed to play in every world and European competition. The most glorious moments came in the second half of the 1990s when they won three consecutive silver medals at the European Championships (1995, 1996 and 1997).

That unique and great generation, led by the likes of Irina Kirilova, Elena Chebukina, Tatjana Sidurenko, Barbara Jelic, Marija Anzulovic and Nataša Leko laid a great foundation for qualification to the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney. The Croatian coaches then began working with the next generation, which resulted in a great crop of youth and junior girls which was the foundation for today’s senior team.

The side has much to learn, but many believe they will also have much to offer after rigorous preparations this summer. Qualification for their first World Championship since 1998 is already a significant and impressive achievement. The manner it was done was also eye catching. Three straight set victories over Hungary, Slovakia and Belgium before going on to finish second behind Serbia in the third round of qualifying in Europe, was enough to leave the likes of Spain and Romania in their wake. A second-round place is hoped for, but the World Championships are also seen as a crucial step in the long journey towards the 2012 Olympic Games in London.